Getting along with people you don’t like at work can be challenging but is often necessary for maintaining a positive and productive work environment.
People behave the way they do for two main reasons: because they know no different or their behaviour gets them out of situations they don’t want to be in.
The challenge to overcome obstacles resides with the manager who must be flexible enough to bring about change in themselves, the employee and the relationship.
Here are some strategies you can employ:
- Professionalism: Maintain a professional demeanour at all times. Treat the person with respect, courtesy, and politeness, regardless of your personal feelings towards them.
- Focus on the Work: Concentrate on the tasks and projects you need to complete rather than getting caught up in interpersonal conflicts. Keep your interactions with the person focused on work-related matters.
- Set Boundaries: If the person’s behaviour is particularly bothersome, set boundaries to protect yourself. This might involve limiting non-essential interactions or avoiding topics that tend to lead to conflict.
- Communication: Clear and open communication is key. If you need to collaborate with the person, communicate clearly and directly about expectations, deadlines, and responsibilities. Misunderstandings often arise from poor communication.
- Find Common Ground: Try to find common interests or goals that you share with the person. Focusing on shared objectives can help build rapport and improve your working relationship.
- Empathy: Try to understand the other person’s perspective. They may be dealing with personal issues or stressors that contribute to their behaviour. Empathising with them can help you be more patient and tolerant.
- Conflict Resolution: If conflicts arise, address them calmly and professionally. Avoid escalating the situation by resorting to personal attacks or passive-aggressive behaviour. Instead, focus on finding mutually beneficial solutions.
- Personal Development: Use the experience as an opportunity for personal growth. Learning to navigate challenging relationships in the workplace can help you develop valuable skills such as emotional intelligence and conflict resolution.
Remember you are always in control of your own behaviour and how you respond. Always focus on maintaining your professionalism, setting boundaries, and prioritising your own well-being.